What are the responsibilities and job description for the Child Watch - Putnam position at YMCA OF THE WABASH VALLE Y?
PUTNAM COUNTY YMCA
Job Title: Child Watch
FLSA Status: Nonexempt
Status: P/T Department: Childcare
Reports to: Youth Director Revision Date: 01/2025
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POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for the safety and supervision of children while their parents are participating in on-site recreation activities or classes at the YMCA Branch. Primarily provide a positive play atmosphere for children ages 6 weeks-7 years. This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the general direction of the Youth Director, the Child Watch staff will be responsible for providing a safe, nurturing, and positive environment for any child who enters our program.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Provides careful, attentive supervision, and is always alert.
- Responsible and familiar with the behaviors and needs of infants, toddlers, and children.
- Keep a consistent headcount on all children; communicate changes with all Y staff.
- Supervises children's activities to ensure their safety and provides a positive, enriching experience for each child.
- Acknowledge the member and the child(ren) by greeting them by name.
- Initiate and maintain positive relationships with children and parents and be comfortable with children & responsive to parent input & concerns. Manage member/parent concerns and report concerns to Youth Director. Maintains confidentiality and treats all families with dignity and respect.
- Maintain all supplies, equipment and materials; inform the Youth Director when new/additional supplies are needed.
- Maintains accurate documentation of attendance and emergency information for each child.
- Practices infection control procedures and proper hand washing.
- Upholds the association's child protection policies, child abuse and neglect guidelines, and proper reporting procedures.
- Maintain a professional appearance and manner reflective of Y standards.
- Attends all staff meetings.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Be a committed advocate of the YMCA and exemplify the character values of the YMCA: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):
- Mission Advancement
- Collaboration
- Operational Effectiveness
- Personal Growth
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A working knowledge of YMCA programs is required.
- Position requires current certifications in CPR, AED, First Aid, New Employee Orientation, and Child Abuse Prevention.
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Must have experience working with infants, children, and families.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and appreciate the needs of children.
- Have patience and enthusiasm.
- Ability to work as a team member.
- Must pass a background check.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
- Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
- Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position, including walking, standing/sitting for extended time periods, bending, reaching, and lifting.
- Able to pick up and hold children as needed.
- Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies by following emergency protocol and procedures.
- Makes sound judgements, and transfer learning from one situation to another.
- Pursues self-development that enhances job performance.
- Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process.